San Diego Community College Police Department

November 14, 2003

HOLIDAY SAFETY

Homes jam-packed with glittering gifts. Stores, malls and downtown streets teeming with unsuspecting shoppers. People rushing around, stressed out and careless, looking for last-minute gifts, trying to get everything done. It’s enough to make a crook giddy with holiday joy.

Here are some tips on how to celebrate safely this holiday season:

IF YOU’RE TRAVELING

• Get an automatic timer for your lights.
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home and park in the driveway from time to time.
• Don’t forget to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. If it piles up, it’s a sure sign you’re gone.

IF YOU’RE OUT FOR THE EVENING

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks like someone’s home.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside.

IF YOU’RE SHOPPING

• Shop with friends. There is safety in numbers.
• Stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay with check or credit card when possible.
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don’t overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside or front pants pocket.
• Don't try to carry too much merchandise at one time. It makes you look vulnerable.

YOUR CAR

• Park in a well-lighted space.
• Look in your backseat before you enter your vehicle.
• Keep your vehicle locked and windows closed at all times and set your alarm.
• Hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
  
  

SHOPPING WITH KIDS?

• Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.
• Watch the kids at all times.
• Have designated meeting times and places if you spilt up from the older kids and stick to it.
• If you have small kids with you, get in your vehicle, lock the doors then buckle up.
  
  

The holidays are a good time to update – or create – your home inventory. Take photos or make videos of items, and list descriptions and serial numbers. If your home is burglarized, having a detailed inventory can help identify stolen items and make insurance claims easier to file. Make sure things like TVs, VCRs, stereo equipment, cameras, camcorders, sports equipment, jewelry, silver, computers, home office equipment, and power tools are on the list. Remember to check twice!

If you have information about crimes which have occurred, or may occur on or near campus, you may report it by calling College Police at (619) 388-6405, the San Diego Police at (619) 531-2000 or crimes stoppers at (619) 235-TIPS. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

David Worden

Chief of Police